Sodium Benzoate

Sodium benzoate is a preservative that plays a crucial role in keeping your skincare products safe to use by preventing the growth of harmful bacteria, yeasts, and molds [1]. While it doesn't directly benefit your skin, it ensures your products remain effective and safe throughout their shelf life. The ingredient is particularly effective in water-based formulations, where microbial growth is most likely to occur [2].

If you have balanced (type 3) or oily (type 4) skin, you're likely to tolerate products containing sodium benzoate well. Research shows these skin types rarely experience adverse reactions to the ingredient when used at standard concentrations (0.5% or less) [3]. However, if you have dry sensitive (type 1), dry (type 2), or oily sensitive (type 5) skin, you should approach products containing this preservative with more caution. Studies indicate that sensitive skin types may experience irritation or allergic reactions, particularly if you already have conditions like contact dermatitis or rosacea [4].

Biotaderm products typically contain less that 0.5% sodium benzoate which we consider to be very low risk and less likely to cause a reaction.

Recent research has provided reassuring evidence about sodium benzoate's safety profile. A 2023 study found that at typical concentrations, it doesn't interfere with normal skin cell function or collagen production [5]. However, the same study emphasizes the importance of using products with appropriate preservative levels, as higher concentrations might cause irritation in sensitive individuals. If you're concerned about sensitivity, consider performing a patch test before using a new product containing sodium benzoate, particularly if you have a history of skin reactions [6].

For those managing specific skin conditions, it's worth noting that while sodium benzoate helps maintain product safety, it doesn't actively treat skin concerns. The primary consideration should be whether your skin tolerates the ingredient well. Research suggests that individuals with compromised skin barriers, such as those with atopic dermatitis or rosacea, should be particularly mindful of product selection [7]. If you experience any irritation, consider switching to products with alternative preservation systems.

References

[1] Rodriguez-Homs LG, Atwater AR. Allergens in Medical Hand Skin Cleansers. Dermatitis. 2019;30(6):336-341.

[2] Głaz P, et al. Effect of Commonly Used Cosmetic Preservatives on Healthy Human Skin Cells. Cells. 2023;12:1076. https://doi.org/10.3390/cells12071076

[3] Bruna GO, et al. Food additives and their health effects: A review on preservative sodium benzoate. African Journal of Biotechnology. 2018;17(10):306-310.

[4] Panico A, et al. Skin safety and health prevention: an overview of chemicals in cosmetic products. J Prev Med Hyg. 2019;60:E50-E57.

[5] de Groot AC, et al. Contact allergy to preservatives: PART I. Contact Dermatitis. 2021;85:369-384. https://doi.org/10.1111/cod.13910

[6] Werfel T, et al. Diagnostic criteria for atopic dermatitis: A systematic review. Br J Dermatol. 2016;175(4):681-695. https://doi.org/10.1111/bjd.14475

[7] Two M, et al. Rosacea: part II. Topical and systemic therapies in the treatment of rosacea. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2015;72(5):761-770. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jaad.2014.06.035